KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 vs. KTM 790 Adventure 2019

The KTM 1090 Adventure model year 2018 and the KTM 790 Adventure model year 2019 are both enduro motorcycles with similar features but also some distinct differences.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a V-type engine with a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm. It has an engine power of 125 HP and a torque of 109 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is chain-driven. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 has an in-line engine with a bore of 88 mm and a stroke of 65.7 mm. It has a slightly lower engine power of 95 HP and a torque of 88 Nm. The starter and transmission are the same as the 1090 Adventure. Both motorcycles have 2 cylinders, but the displacement of the 1090 Adventure is 1050 ccm, while the 790 Adventure has a smaller displacement of 799 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The front suspension on both models is provided by WP and has a diameter of 43 mm. However, the travel on the 790 Adventure is slightly higher at 200 mm compared to the 185 mm on the 1090 Adventure. The rear suspension on both models is also provided by WP and has a travel of 190 mm on the 1090 Adventure and 200 mm on the 790 Adventure.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame type. The rake on the 1090 Adventure is 64 degrees, while on the 790 Adventure it is slightly higher at 64.1 degrees. The trail on the 1090 Adventure is 120 mm, while on the 790 Adventure it is lower at 107.8 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The assistance systems on both models include ABS, riding modes, and traction control. However, the 790 Adventure also has the additional feature of ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the front tire diameter on the 1090 Adventure is 19 inches, while on the 790 Adventure it is slightly larger at 21 inches. The rear tire width is the same on both models at 150 mm, but the rear tire diameter on the 1090 Adventure is 17 inches, while on the 790 Adventure it is 18 inches. The wheelbase on the 1090 Adventure is 1560 mm, while on the 790 Adventure it is shorter at 1509 mm. The seat height on the 1090 Adventure is 850 mm, while on the 790 Adventure it is lower at 830 mm. The dry weight with ABS on the 1090 Adventure is 205 kg, while on the 790 Adventure it is lighter at 189 kg. The fuel tank capacity on the 1090 Adventure is larger at 23 liters, while on the 790 Adventure it is 20 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a very powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range. It also has performance modes, the ability to switch off ABS, and adjustable traction control. The handling of the 1090 Adventure is agile and safe, and it has adjustable ergonomics and a height-adjustable windshield. The motorcycle is relatively lightweight and has a comparatively low price.

KTM 790 Adventure 2019

On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 has an engine with manners and character. It offers enormously high chassis stability and brakes without reproach. The 790 Adventure also has tremendous off-road capabilities and a low average consumption.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is considered to have outdated optics compared to the new 1290 Super Adventures. Additionally, the suspension fork on the 1090 Adventure is not adjustable. The KTM 790 Adventure 2019, on the other hand, has an unattractive surcharge policy and the original seat is not optimally shaped.

Overall, both the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The 1090 Adventure offers a more powerful engine and a larger fuel tank capacity, while the 790 Adventure has a more modern design and better off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.